Anyone complaining that video games are becoming more than a little ‘samey’ need look no further than EA’s upcoming adventure title, Brutal Legend. This unorthodox action adventure comes straight from the imagination of notable games developer Tim Schafer.
It tells the tale of Eddie Riggs, the world’s best roadie who, despite his deep love for heavy metal, feels somewhat out of place. While clearing up after a gig, an accident causes him to bleed onto his ornate belt buckle. This, in turn, kicks off an ancient curse, transporting him to a fantasy world inspired by the music he loves so dearly.
Unfortunately, the world of rock has been enslaved by the evil emperor Doviculus and his demonic army, The Tainted Coil. Eddie soon finds himself joining forces with the human resistance, where he becomes the leader and is charged with saving this world from the villainous tyrant.
The list of unique and quirky features for this title is near endless, not least its star-studded cast, with Jack Black lending his voice to the heroic Riggs. Electronic Arts is confident there will be something for everyone in Brutal Legend, be they fans of fantasy adventures or heavy metal aficionados.
“The pedigree of Tim Schafer and the Double Fine team is undeniable,” says UK product manager Kevin
Flynn. “Plus, we have the incredible roster of voice talent including Jack Black, Ozzie Osbourne, Lemmy Kilmister and Rob Halford.
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“Then there’s the epic soundtrack that accompanies this amazing metal-inspired fantasy world.
“There’s also the unique brand of comedy that runs throughout the game, and the fact we have such great access to Jack Black as a great ambassador for getting those laughs across to the right audience.”
ROCKING YOUR WORLD
The game takes on an open world structure, allowing players to explore at their own pace.
Fans of the music that inspired it will find countless references to notable heavy metal covers and lyrics everywhere, but that’s not to say other gamers won’t be just as satisfied by the adventure.
Taking on a series of quests, players fight back the hordes of demons that have taken over this world with the roadie’s massive broad axe, known as The Separator, and his cherished guitar Clementine.
The latter has been infused with magical powers in this world, and mastering the abilities of both the axe and the instrument unlocks devastating attacks for use in battle.
There will also be sections where Riggs can drive around in his customisable hot rod, the Deuce. Not only is this great for exploring hard to reach areas, it also lends itself to vehicular combat.
The Deuce can even be upgraded throughout the course of the game, as can The Separator and Clementine.
Electronic Arts successfully launched two new IPs around this time last year in the form of Mirror’s Edge and Dead Space, so it will be drawing on its past experience to raise awareness of Brutal Legend’s arrival.
Naturally, the superstar cast will go some way to achieving this, as well a soundtrack that rivals the latest
Rock Band setlists, but major marketing initiatives are still in place to ensure the game’s success.
Brutal Legend will be supported by a comprehensive above-the-line campaign that includes a TV ad featuring Jack Black as Eddie Riggs.
The publisher will also be using engaging and interesting online solutions as well as print and POS.
“Our expectations are that Brutal Legend will really capture the attention of core gamers and appeal to a much wider demographic at the same time,” says Flynn. “We think this is going to be one of the most interesting new IPs to hit the shelves this year.
“Retailers should expect one of the most fun action adventures of 2009. The open world is huge and with
your axe and guitar, you get to play as Eddie Riggs and blaze a trail of destruction across the world all in the name of rock.”
